PERCEPTION OF HOME DELIVERY AMONG MARRIED WOMEN ATTENDING ANTENATAL CARE SORO LGA P.H.C BAUCHI STATE
Abstract
Home delivery remains a significant concern in Nigeria, particularly in rural areas. Understanding the perceptions and attitudes of married women towards home birth can inform strategies to improve maternal health outcomes.
This study aimed to identify factors influencing the preference for home delivery, assess awareness about risks associated with home delivery, and determine attitudes towards facility-based delivery services among married women attending antenatal care in Birshin Fulani Primary Health Care Center, Bauchi State.
A cross-sectional descriptive study design was employed, with a sample size of 384 married women selected using a multi-stage sampling technique. Data was collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS v.27.
The study revealed that 61.2% of respondents had delivered at home, with cultural beliefs (31.5%) and lack of transportation (24.5%) being significant factors influencing preference for home delivery. While 62.0% of respondents were aware of potential risks associated with home delivery, 39.8% had a favorable attitude towards facility-based delivery services. Barriers to facility-based delivery included cost (25.0%) and accessibility (36.7%).
The study highlights the need for a multifaceted approach to promote safe delivery practices, addressing systemic barriers, enhancing accessibility, and considering cultural context. Improving the quality and accessibility of maternal care services is essential to reducing home delivery rates and improving maternal health
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